Common Questions Cazenovia, NY Therapy

Why do people seek therapy?

People come into therapy for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, therapy can help. Therapy can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, lgbt concerns, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.

What can I expect in a therapy session?

During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book, thinking about issued discussed, or taking corrective action steps.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find therapy to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values

Developing skills for improving your relationships

Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy

Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety

Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures

Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you

Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones

Discovering new ways to solve problems

Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What if I don't know what my goals are for therapy?

If you aren't sure what your goals are for therapy, your first task could be to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of therapy your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. Generally, I do not submit reports directly to insurance companies. However, some of my clients prefer to submit a bill themselves their carrier independently, accepting responsibility for the insurance claim. Others have preferred to use their HSAs or FSAs.
Whatever your situation, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

What are my mental health benefits?

What is my deductible?

How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?

How much would my insurance reimburse me for services with an out-of-network provider?

Is there a limitation on how much insurance will reimburse me per session?

Is primary care physician approval required?

Do I have the abiity to set up a HSA or FSA?

I encourage my clients to consider the benefits of self pay for their therapy sessions.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:

Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.

If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.

If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.